Raider Nation News

Week of February 10, 2020

Valentine's Day This Week

This Friday is Valentine’s Day! This “holiday,” traditionally associated with love, reminds me of a lesson I observed at our school. I happened to be visiting an English classroom one day and the topic being discussed was love. The teacher explained to students that ancient Greeks believed in several types of love. One of the types of love was philia. The hallmark of philia, or friendship is shared goodwill. Aristotle believed that a person can bear goodwill to another for one of three reasons: that he is useful; that he is pleasant; and, above all, that he is good, that is, rational and virtuous. Friendships founded on goodness are associated not only with mutual benefit but also with companionship, dependability, and trust. I will let you discover the other types of love as defined by ancient Greeks (happy searching!).

I received notification this week that one of our students, Arthur Wang, was recognized as a Distinguished Finalist in The 2020 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards. Arthur is among the top students in Maryland and the country in the realm of volunteer work. Moreover, he qualified for the President’s Volunteer Service Award. Arthur’s service to his community is impressive and to quote from his award letter, “(he is) an exemplary role model for (his) peers.” Congratulations to Arthur and thanks to his family for their support of him in his community service! Arthur also won FIRST PLACE in the PTSA Reflections Contest in Film Production. A very impressive young man!!

I mentioned last week that we are beginning preparations for seniors and graduation. Please refer to our website for information on graduation announcements and cap and gown. On another note, information regarding AFTER PROM will be coming home soon. I hope you will encourage our juniors and seniors to attend. What better way to ensure a worry-free night for you knowing that students are not engaged in dangerous and destructive activities.

Lastly, for our redistricted families: the administrative team and student services will be visiting our redistricted schools at the end of the month. The visit, to introduce ourselves to our incoming students, will also provide an opportunity for them to ask questions and address any concerns they may have. We will be visiting Oakland Mills High School on February 26 and Hammond High School on March 4. The visits will take place during their “Scorpion and Bear Time” on Wednesdays (equivalent to our RaiderTime).

Have a fantastic week!

Warmly,

Robert A. Motley

Principal